Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." — Ephesians 4:32

Why is forgiveness one of the hardest things God asks us to do?

In this episode of Everyday Joy, Ash is joined by Jen for an honest and deeply practical conversation about forgiveness. Together, they explore why our natural instinct is often to protect ourselves, seek justice, or hold onto hurt—and why Jesus invites us to choose a different path.

They unpack what it really means to forgive, the difference between saying "I forgive you" and genuinely releasing someone, and why forgiveness is often a journey rather than a one-time decision. Jen also shares the beautiful way she's teaching her daughter about forgiveness through a simple illustration inspired by Bluey, reminding us that sometimes we need to intentionally let go of the hurt we've been carrying.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that we don't forgive because people deserve it—we forgive because we've experienced the incredible forgiveness of Christ. As we grow closer to Jesus, kindness, compassion, and forgiveness become the evidence of a transformed heart.

If you're struggling to forgive someone, carrying bitterness, or wondering how to love people who have hurt you, this episode will encourage you to take the next step toward freedom, healing, and living more like Jesus.